Barbell Lying Close-grip Press

The Barbell Lying Close-grip Press is a compound exercise that primarily targets the triceps, but also engages the chest, shoulders, and even the core muscles. This exercise is highly effective for building strength and muscular endurance in the upper body. To perform this exercise, you would lie flat on a bench with your feet planted firmly on the ground. Grab the barbell with a grip that is narrower than shoulder-width apart, palms facing towards you. Slowly lower the barbell towards your chest, keeping your elbows tucked in close to your body. Once the barbell is just above your chest, reverse the movement and press it back up to the starting position, fully extending your arms. The Barbell Lying Close-grip Press can be done using various weights and can be adjusted based on individual fitness levels. It is important to maintain proper form throughout the movement, ensuring that your elbows stay close to your body and do not flare outwards. It is also advisable to start with lighter weights to perfect your technique before gradually increasing the load. Incorporating the Barbell Lying Close-grip Press into your workout routine can enhance your upper body strength and contribute to overall muscle development. Remember to warm up adequately before starting and always listen to your body's signals to prevent any potential injuries. Happy lifting!

Instructions

• Lie flat on a bench with your back fully supported.
• Hold the barbell with a close grip, hands placed about shoulder-width apart.
• Lift the barbell off the rack and hold it directly over your chest with your arms fully extended.
• Slowly lower the barbell towards your chest by flexing your elbows. Keep your elbows close to your body throughout the movement.
• Pause briefly when the barbell is just above your chest.
• Push the barbell back up to the starting position by extending your arms. Keep your wrists straight and maintain control of the barbell.
• Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Tips & Tricks

• Focus on maintaining proper form throughout the movement to target the triceps effectively.
• Engage your core muscles and keep your lower back flat on the bench to prevent excessive arching.
• Gradually increase the weight as you become comfortable with the movement and are able to maintain proper form.
• Incorporate a controlled eccentric phase (lowering the barbell) to maximize muscle growth and strength.
• Keep your elbows tucked in close to your body to place more emphasis on the triceps rather than the chest muscles.
• Exhale forcefully as you push the barbell up and inhale as you lower it down to enhance stability and power.
• Utilize a spotter when lifting heavy weights to ensure safety and assistance if needed.
• Include variations like using an EZ-bar or dumbbells to challenge your muscles from different angles.
• Ensure adequate rest and recovery between sessions to allow your muscles to repair and grow stronger.
• Pair this exercise with other compound movements like bench press or overhead press to boost overall upper body strength.